Tuberculosis and sleep – An underexplored association?

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of infectious disease mortality worldwide. On the other hand, sleep is a vital determinant of human health and profoundly influences immunity and cardiometabolic health. Both tuberculosis and sleep disorders are highly prevalent conditions, especially in developing countries, which face a dual epidemic of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Sleep quality/disorders and tuberculosis may potentially have bidirectional relationships of public health significance. This article summarizes the current literature that explores the associations between sleep and tuberculosis, their pathophysiological basis, and potential future research avenues.